The Henrichenburg Ship Lift in Waltrop is a must-see not only for technology enthusiasts: In addition to the fantastic view of the Dortmund-Ems Canal, the museum offers fun and games for children and adults alike, providing an entertaining journey through the history of the structure.
The crowd cheered when Emperor Wilhelm II inaugurated the Henrichenburg Ship Lift on August 11, 1899. Even more than 100 years later, visitors are still thrilled by this largest structure on the Dortmund-Ems Canal. The gigantic lift has been out of service for over 40 years. In the museum, the history of the ship lift and the people along the canal comes back to life.
A staircase leads up to the bridge between the two main towers. From here, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the steel structure and the expansive canal landscape near Waltrop. In the historic machine hall, you’ll learn how the waterway and the ship lift were built. A model illustrates the technology that allowed inland waterway vessels to overcome the 14-meter canal drop.
The collection of floating workboats and historic ships moored in the lift’s outer harbor is truly unique. On board, for example, you can learn how a typical inland waterway boatman’s family worked and lived 50 years ago. On special occasions, the historic ships are sent out on cruises. During the summer season, the passenger ship “Henrichenburg II” departs regularly from the museum pier.
